Why Your Home Needs an EICR
- Leigh Howard
- Mar 18
- 2 min read
We all rely on electricity daily, from charging our phones to keeping our fridges running. But how often do we stop to think about the safety of our home's electrical system? Out of sight, out of mind, right? Wrong! That's where an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) comes in.
Think of an EICR as an MOT for your home's electrics. It's a comprehensive inspection carried out by a qualified electrician to assess the safety and condition of your electrical installation. This isn't just a quick glance; it's a thorough examination that identifies potential hazards and ensures your wiring is up to standard.
Why is an EICR so important?
Safety First: Faulty wiring can lead to electric shocks, fires, and even fatalities. An EICR identifies these risks, allowing you to address them before they become a serious problem.
Legal Compliance: Landlords in the UK are legally required to have an EICR carried out every five years (or sooner if the property is a House in Multiple Occupation - HMO). Even if you're a homeowner, keeping your electrics safe is your responsibility.
Insurance Purposes: Some insurance companies may require an up-to-date EICR. In the event of an electrical fire, having a recent report could be crucial for a successful claim.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your electrical system is safe and sound provides invaluable peace of mind for you and your family.
Identifying Degradation: Electrical installations degrade over time. An EICR will identify any issues due to age, wear and tear, or damage.
Loose connections can cause fires!
What does an EICR involve?
A qualified electrician will inspect various aspects of your electrical system, including:
Wiring and cables
Consumer unit (fuse box)
Sockets and switches
Light fixtures
Earthing and bonding
They'll then provide a report detailing any issues found, categorised by severity.
How often should you get an EICR?
Homeowners: Recommended every 10 years, or when buying/selling a property.
Landlords: Required every 5 years, or sooner for HMOs.
Businesses: Frequency depends on the type of business and risk assessment.
Don't wait for a flickering light or a burning smell to alert you to a problem. Invest in an EICR and keep your home safe. It's a small price to pay for the safety of your family and property.